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Talk it out with your photographer pre-shoot and let them know what you're looking for in terms of poses and expressions.
If you don't know, or you're feeling nervous - which is totally normal BTW, be honest and let them know how you're feeling. It's totally normal to have some anxiety or nerves around having your photo taken. Good communication will help them create a comfortable and relaxed environment for you. Let them be your guide. Remember, it should be fun!
Do your best to get plenty of sleep the night before your shoot so you look and feel fresh.
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated - this can do wonders for your complexion.
Hair and makeup should be done in a way that compliments your clothing and the purpose of the headshot. Keep makeup simple and natural looking.
Men should consider grooming their facial hair neatly, and keep an eye out for stray nose and ear hairs too ;)
Remember that a good headshot should represent the real you.
Wear clothes you feel comfortable and confident in that match the style of the shoot - Avoid clothing that is too revealing or too casual if you're going for a professional look.
Stick to solid colours that compliment your skin tone and eye colour. Avoid busy patterns or logos. This may seem obvious, but make sure your clothes are clean without creases.
Keep jewellery and accessories simple and minimal. Avoid anything that is too flashy or distracting.
Try on your outfit before the shoot to ensure it fits well and is going to look good on camera. Test driving your outfit will give you the chance to make any adjustments if necessary.
Test out some poses in the mirror or with friend prior to your shoot. See what works and what doesn't. This can help you feel more confident going into the shoot. You may even find you have a prefered side...
But don't stress too much about all this... Relax and be yourself, try not to be too self conscious or worry too much about how you look. Your photographer should be able to guide you through looking natural in front to the camera.
Remember portrait photography can be FUN! Find a photographer you connect with, trust them to be your guide, and enjoy the process. You may be surprised at just how well you photograph! ;)
